Nottingham Forest enter the 2025-26 Premier League season with the challenge of balancing domestic duties with European football for the first time in 30 years. After a remarkable seventh-place finish under Nuno Espírito Santo, the club must adapt to a congested fixture list while addressing a lack of goals in pre-season. Seven friendlies yielded just one goal and five goalless draws, highlighting a need for composure in front of goal despite creating chances.
The departure of Anthony Elanga, whose electric pace was central to Nuno's counter-attacking system, has prompted a club-record €40m signing of Swiss winger Dan Ndoye from Bologna. Ndoye, 24, scored eight goals and provided four assists in Serie A last season and brings European experience. However, he is not as quick as Elanga, and the club may seek additional attacking reinforcements. A full-back, midfielder, winger and striker remain on the shopping list.
Morgan Gibbs-White's decision to sign a new three-year contract, despite reported interest from Tottenham, is a major boost. Owner Evangelos Marinakis personally convinced the midfielder to stay, earning praise after criticism since promotion. The club also secured planning permission to expand the City Ground to 35,000 with a new 10,000-seat stand.
Former Arsenal sporting director Edu has joined as global head of football, potentially influencing further moves into the Brazilian market. Young defender Zach Abbott, 19, signed a new four-year deal and is expected to gain more first-team opportunities due to European commitments. Taiwo Awoniyi remains a key striker after his crucial goals in previous campaigns.
Nuno's quiet leadership is respected throughout the club, but maintaining stability while balancing Premier League and European competitions will be critical. The Guardian writers' average predicted position is 12th, reflecting uncertainty over how the squad copes with increased demands.
